New Testament

Matthew 17:27

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, Jesus instructs Peter to catch a fish to find a coin that will pay their temple tax.

Author: Matthew the apostle
Written: Around AD 60-70
Genre: Gospel
Original Audience: Jewish Christians

CBTClear Bible Translation

But so we don't cause an offense, go to the lake and cast a hook. Open the mouth of the first fish you catch, and you'll find a piece of money. Take it and pay the tax for both of us.

KJVKing James Version

Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Jesus instructs Peter to catch a fish to find a coin that will pay their temple tax. This act demonstrates Jesus' authority over nature and His ability to provide for needs in unexpected ways. The reason for this miracle is to avoid causing offense to the temple authorities, showing Jesus' respect for societal obligations. The coin found in the fish's mouth symbolizes God's provision and the importance of fulfilling responsibilities without compromising one's mission. This moment highlights the balance between faith and practical living, as Jesus addresses both spiritual and earthly matters. It also reflects the idea that God can provide for us in surprising ways, even in situations that seem challenging or burdensome. This story encourages believers to trust in God's provision while navigating their responsibilities in the world.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Matthew 17:27 to your life

This verse teaches us to trust in God's provision for our needs, even in unexpected ways. It encourages us to fulfill our responsibilities while maintaining our integrity and faith. We should seek to avoid causing offense in our interactions with others, reflecting Christ's love and respect.

Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Matthew 17:27 mean?

Matthew 17:27 describes how Jesus instructs Peter to catch a fish to find a coin that will pay their temple tax. This illustrates Jesus' ability to provide for needs and His respect for societal obligations.

What is the significance of the coin in the fish's mouth in Matthew 17:27?

The coin found in the fish's mouth symbolizes God's provision and the unexpected ways He can meet our needs. It also highlights the importance of fulfilling responsibilities without compromising one's mission.

Why did Jesus tell Peter to catch a fish in Matthew 17:27?

Jesus told Peter to catch a fish to avoid causing offense to the temple authorities by paying their tax. This act demonstrates Jesus' authority over nature and His commitment to fulfilling obligations.

What themes are present in Matthew 17:27?

Key themes in Matthew 17:27 include divine provision, faith in action, avoiding offense, and respect for authority. The verse emphasizes the balance between spiritual and practical responsibilities.

Book Summary

The Book of Matthew

Matthew 1: The Generation and Birth of Jesus Christ

The book begins with the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. It records the generations from Abraham to David, from David until the carrying away into Babylon, and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ, each being fourteen generations. The genealogy concludes with Jacob begetting Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.

The birth of Jesus Christ is on this wise: His mother Mary is espoused to Joseph, but before they come together, she is found with child of the Holy Ghost. Joseph, being a just man and not willing to make her a publick example, is minded to put her away privily. But while he thinks on these things, an angel of the Lord appears to him in a dream, saying, Fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. The angel saith she shall bring forth a son, and Joseph shall call his name JESUS, for he shall save his people from their sins. Joseph, being raised from sleep, does as the angel had bidden him and takes unto him his wife, but knows her not till she has brought forth her firstborn son. Matthew 2: The Wise Men and the Flight to Egypt When Jesus is born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, there come wise men from the east to Jerusalem, saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him. When Herod the king hears these things, he is troubled. He gathers the chief priests and scribes and demands of them where Christ should be born. They say unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea. Herod privily calls the wise men and sends them to Bethlehem to search for the young child, telling them to bring him word again, that he may come and worship him also. The star goes before them until it stands over where the young child is. They rejoice, and entering the house, they see the young child with Mary his mother, and fall down and worship him, presenting him with gifts. Being warned of God in a dream not to return to Herod, they depart into their own country another way.

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